Italy rewilding vacation in the Apennines

Planet

By traveling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment. On this trip part of the itinerary is off the beaten track and we stay one night in a mountain refuge.

This trip will enable you to explore the some of the area that is being rewilded through our Nature and Carbon Corridors’ project in partnership with Rewilding Europe. This trip supports rewilding, wildlife conservation and the restoration of precious ecosystems by helping develop ecotourism in the area, building important community and financial support for this work. Our local partner also contributes directly to Rewilding Europe’s work directly. In addition, we have committed to rewild 100 square metres of the Italian Apennines for every passenger who travels with us, through our Nature and Carbon Corridors Project.

Use of transport on the trip is minimal – you will mostly be using your feet so the carbon footprint of this trip is low. We have also selected smaller, locally-run accommodation to minimise the impact on the surrounding environments. Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary prioritise the use of locally sourced food that has not been transported long distances. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at all accommodation and restaurants. Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable. Consider taking the train to this trip. Not only will it significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your vacation vs. flying, it also extends your adventure! Speak to us about information on planning your journey or about which train journeys we can book for you.

People

Life can be often hard in Central Apennines. The power of the mountains can test even the toughest people, here. Isolation can be a burden and the necessity to make a living has often led in the past not to be gentle to nature. Thankfully, things are changing in the last few years and a new social and environmental awareness is rising: at its base there is a renovated interest in the wilderness and a positive attitude to investigate alternative ways to generate new economies based on the rewilding principles.

This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally-owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprises.

Our local partner organises thematic public meetings dedicated to local communities, with the aims of speaking about the rewilding approach, making them aware of the nature values and benefits and involving people in the ground activities. One of this is the Rewilding Social Club, which aims to engage with people in the rewilding debate by sharing cooking practices and local produce that belong to the Marsican brown bear diet (such as wild herbs, berries, fruits, honey).

They also organise educative programs, mostly dedicated to young people and students from Central Apennines communities, to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Finally, the use of a local guide on this trip not only provides employment but means travelers will be well informed about local traditions and cultural and social sensitivities.